REI invites outdoor enthusiasts to vote on trails

For many in America, trails are the gateway to the outdoors. REI is inviting its 5.5 million members and the outdoor community to connect with the nation’s network of trails. The co-op is calling on hikers, runners, cyclists and anyone who loves the outdoors to actively take part and help to fund 10 inspiring trails by voting on REI.com/trails, including the Coast to Crest Trail near San Diego.

Every Trail Connects marks the first time that REI is engaging its community to decide how to share $500,000 with 10 passionate nonprofit partners. Each vote (one per day, per person) will invest $5 in a selected trail. The investment is part of $5.9 million that REI is granting in 2015 to more than 300 nonprofits working to create access to more than 1,000 outdoor places throughout the United States.

REI has spent decades supporting outdoor nonprofits and has invested nearly $60 million in programs that help people connect to the outdoors. Outdoor lovers can learn more about the co-op’s efforts at REI.com/stewardship, and can share photos and inspiration on Instagram or Twitter using #everytrailconnects.